Quick Drive: Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

Last year, the Ford Fusion took honors as the North American Car of the Year, primarily due to the hybrid version's smooth operation, high fuel economy and fun-to-drive factor. That same system is now used on the Lincoln MKZ and its safe to say that the transfer of this technology to this mid-size luxury sedan has been equally seamless. The MKZ is fun to drive, economical for a vehicle its size and weight (we saw mid-30 mpg performance in both city and highway driving) and it has a host of comfort and convenience items one would expect in this class. It's taken awhile, but I'm starting to warm to the "bow wave" grille treatment (it seems less in-your-face on this smaller car than the full-size MKS). The interior is richly appointed and the road manners of the MKZ are taut with good ride and steering feedback. Its more Audi than traditional Lincoln luxobarge. While the some of the technology is pretty cool (its great to watch the instrument panel graphics shift back and forth from EV to gas engine mode and the eco-tree bloom with more leaves the lighter you trod on the accelerator), other elements are a bit fussy and overdone. The nav system on the touch screen is not particularly intuitive and the various proximity sensors have jarring warning beeps that could be a bit more muted. Overall, though, the MKZ Hybrid offers a nice blend of luxury and makes a statement on where your eco-sensibilities reside.